iRacing

iRacing is a web-based car simulator whose developers tried to make the game as realistic as possible. So they put special emphasis on recreating real race tracks and authentic cars. In both cases, laser scanning systems were used to provide outstanding accuracy. iRacing.com Motorsport Simulations, the studio responsible for the game, has a number of racing organizations (e.g. NASCAR) and racing teams (e.g. the British Williams F1, known from Formula 1). There is also a detailed design of the steering mechanics, trying to reproduce the physics and the way cars move during the race. In order to achieve this effect, scientific research and authentic tests were taken into account.

One of the distinguishing elements of iRacing is the full adaptation of the game to the online gameplay. Preparations for the race (e.g. selection of a car) are carried out via the iRacing website, and only when all options are selected is the right application launched.

To achieve a balance in the difficulty level of the game, the developers introduced a career system. Every player who starts the game goes first to the beginner's league (i.e. rookies), where he races against opponents of a similar (low) skill level. As they grow, drivers receive more licenses (called D, C, B, A) at the end of the PRO. Promotion is influenced, among others, by the safety ranking on the track, which determines how often drivers cause breakdowns or accidents. It eliminates players at higher levels who make it difficult for others to play.

The game consists in racing in online rallies within the three-month season. Races in the lower classes start every hour or every two, and in the meantime you can either qualify or drive in test mode on an empty track. Rallies are organised by the iRacing team and users alike, and their reports, sometimes with commentary, can be viewed live thanks to the streams on the game website.

The iRacing graphic design is aesthetically pleasing and legible, although it is hard to call it photorealistic. Since their debut, creators have been supporting the game by introducing regular improvements - they also do not bypass the appearance of the production.

The game is based on a subscription fee model - players pay a fixed monthly stake, and in return they get the opportunity to participate in races, as well as an initial set of six cars and ten tracks. Subsequent vehicles and routes must be purchased separately for an additional fee. To play iRacing, you need to have the right equipment - a keyboard and mouse alone are not enough. However, the game supports both pads and joysticks, not to mention the different types of steering wheels. iRacing also has hardware support for Oculus Rift, touchscreens and many types of monitors.

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Last updated on August 14, 2015